Most professionals believe when a baby is 6 months old, you can start them in a parent and child swimming program. These programs are really for socialization only. Your child probably won't be developmentally ready for swimming lessons until age 3 +.In the meantime, be cautious around water with your child. The American Academy of Pediatrics says: "Whenever infants and toddlers are in or around water, an adult should be within arm's length, practicing 'touch supervision.'"

Your child will be ready for lessons on his own when he's able to listen to an instructor for the whole Swim lesson and follow his directions. He should also be comfortable around water, if he dislikes bathing or hasn't been around the water much, it might be a good idea to take him to a "mommy and me" class first.A number of health and swimming clubs in Tampa Bay, offer parent and child lessons. Ask your doctor, daycare provider, or other parents to recommend a good program. Try to observe a class before you join. The instructors should run a well-organized class and clearly demonstrate what they're asking parents to do. Other things to look for: A warm pool, which makes it much less traumatic for your child and more comfortable for you, and a relatively small class so you can hear the teacher and have plenty of room to play in the pool.Of course, if you have a swimming pool at home make sure you install a Pool Fence around it to prevent accidents. Swim lessons alone is not enough to keep your child safe around a pool. For more information visit www.TampaPoolFence.com Tampa's Leading Pool Fence and Pool Safety company. Servicing Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco Counties.